What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 12S rRNA. It functions as a mitokine — a hormone-like signal from mitochondria — and has been studied for its roles in glucose handling, exercise endurance, and aging-related metabolic decline.
Mechanism of action
MOTS-c activates AMPK signaling, enhances folate-methionine cycle activity, and modulates nuclear gene expression in response to metabolic stress. It improves insulin sensitivity and promotes substrate utilization during exercise.
Researched benefits
- Improved insulin sensitivity in animal and human pilot work
- Enhanced exercise capacity in rodent models, even in older animals
- Anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity signaling
- Mitochondrial biogenesis support
Researched dosage
Most research protocols use 5000–10000 mcg administered 1× per day via subcutaneous injection. Research has used 5–10 mg subcutaneously 2–3× per week. Human pharmacokinetic data is limited.
A typical cycle runs 4 weeks on, then 2 weeks off before reassessment.
Use the calculator below to convert your target MOTS-c dose into exact insulin-syringe units.
Reconstitution & storage
A standard 10 mg vial reconstituted with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water yields 5000 mcg/mL. Lyophilized stable at 2–8°C. Refrigerate post-reconstitution.
Side effects & considerations
- Limited human safety data
- Possible mild fatigue or flushing
- Injection-site irritation
MOTS-c stacks
- Metabolic Optimization — paired with Semaglutide. Layered metabolic and mitochondrial signaling research. Investigators have considered pairing MOTS-c with GLP-1 agonists in metabolic syndrome models. Not a clinical regimen.
Selected research
- The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c — Cell Metabolism, 2015
- MOTS-c improves muscle insulin sensitivity in aged mice — Cell Reports, 2018